1.Japan’s Parliament has enacted a landmark bill allowing people to buy over-the-counter (OTC) drugs from convenience stores and other retail outlets, a significant shift from the current pharmacy-only sales model.
2.This revised law, an amendment to the pharmaceuticals and medical devices law, successfully passed both the House of Representatives and the House of Councilors, indicating broad support for increased drug accessibility.
3.A key element of the new system is the requirement for consumers to receive online explanations from pharmacists before any OTC drug purchase.
What are your initial thoughts on this new law? Do you anticipate people will frequently choose convenience stores for OTC drugs after their online consultations, or will they still prefer pharmacies?
4.Upon completion of this virtual consultation, consumers will be issued a digital certificate, likely via email, which they can then present to collect their desired medications.
5.The full implementation of the law is anticipated by spring 2027, allowing time for necessary infrastructure and training. This move is expected to greatly benefit underserved areas, such as remote islands.
6.Currently, only 0.7% of Japan’s approximately 57,000 convenience stores are authorized to sell OTC drugs, highlighting the restrictive nature of the existing regulations.
・Once the new law takes effect, would you consider buying OTC drugs from vending machines?
・What are the potential economic impacts of this law on traditional pharmacies versus new retail outlets?
7.Looking ahead, there are even plans to enable OTC drug pick-up from vending machines, further enhancing convenience and accessibility.
8.To prevent misuse, the law introduces a limit of one small package of cold medicine per person for younger generations, taking effect within a year.
9.Furthermore, pharmacies will be required to confirm the age and purchase history of consumers for certain regulated drugs, with specific age targets to be set by the health ministry. Drug packages will also carry abuse warnings.
・How often do you go to convenience stores? Any other items you’d like to see convenience stores offer?
・Japan has a universal healthcare system. What are some of its key strengths and weaknesses in providing comprehensive medical care, including access to necessary drugs?
